Search Privacy Violations, Breaches and Complaints
This database was last updated in December 2015 ago and should only be used as a historical snapshot. More recent data on breaches affecting 500 or more people is available at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Breach Portal.
VA Southwest Health Care Network (VISN 18)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on November 8, 2011. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000068431, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
Late yesterday afternoon , Veteran A attempted to pickup 2 medications from the Pharmacy. One prescription had previously been dispensed. Upon Pharmacy review, it was discovered that this medication was dispensed yesterday to a same surnamed patient. An internal investigation by Pharmacy ensued. Pharmacy called Veteran B this morning to inquire about the medications that were dispensed to them. Veteran B had not taken any of the medications and confirmed that prescription and medication sheets were for Veteran A. Veteran B will pick up new medications and provide Veteran A's medications to the closest CBOC today. Update: 11/08/11:Veteran A will be sent a notification letter due to PHI being disclosed.
Outcome:
Pharmacy supervisor audited medication dispensing for both Veterans. Dispensing tech has had a prior similar event. Supervisor requested and provided a Report of Contact to employee. Disciplinary actions pending. Similar occurrence for the same Pharmacy Tech per supervisor indicates that final disciplinary actions will be evaluated by HR with involvement of employee representative.